When the number of servers and boxes in the network grows above a few nodes, it becomes impractical to have one management console per box. A Console Server is the equipment that allows the system administrator to conveniently access all console ports in a computer network or server farm from one single station. A Console Server also allows access to the console ports remotely through the internet or a dialup connection.

A Console Access Server has multiple serial lines (RS-232, ...) for connection to the console ports and at least one Ethernet LAN port for connection to the network.